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Djaj Mqualli: Moroccan Chicken

Djaj Mqualli: Moroccan Chicken

Krysta
A classic Moroccan dish featuring tender chicken simmered with preserved lemons, green olives, and a fragrant sauce spiced with saffron, ginger, and turmeric. Perfect for a flavorful meal.
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 kg chicken pieces bone-in
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 medium onions finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp ginger grated
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 0.5 tsp saffron threads steeped in 2 tbsp hot water
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt or to taste
  • 0.5 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 0.5 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 2 large preserved lemons pulp removed
  • 1 cup green olives pitted
  • 0.5 cup water or chicken broth

Instructions
 

  • 1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the garlic, ginger, turmeric, black pepper, salt, half of the chopped cilantro, and half of the chopped parsley. Mix well to coat the chicken. For enhanced flavor, marinate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally, overnight in the refrigerator.
  • 2. Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or tagine over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and cook until softened and translucent, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • 3. Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pot, skin-side down if applicable, and brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This helps to seal in the juices and add flavor.
  • 4. Pour in the saffron water (saffron threads steeped in hot water) and the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  • 5. Add the quartered preserved lemon rinds and the pitted green olives to the pot.
  • 6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it simmer for 60-75 minutes, or until the chicken is very tender and cooked through, and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  • 7. Just before serving, stir in the remaining fresh cilantro and parsley.
  • 8. Serve hot with traditional Moroccan couscous or crusty bread to enjoy every drop of the flavorful sauce.

Notes

For best results, marinate the chicken overnight. Serve with couscous or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. You can adjust the amount of preserved lemons and olives to your liking. A touch of honey can be added for a subtle sweetness.
Keyword Djaj Mqualli, Moroccan chicken, preserved lemons, green olives, tagine, chicken recipe, North African, main dishes